BITA Isle of Man Chair completes 800-mile charity cycling challenge 

Over £6,500 raised so far

A group of cyclists, including the Chair of BITA Isle of Man Brendon Kenny, have successfully completed an epic 800 mile charity cycling challenge from Rock in Cornwall to the southernmost point on the rock of Gibraltar.

Mr Kenny and seven other cyclists completed the cycling challenge called Rock2Rock in just 13 days, cycling an average of 70 miles per day.

The group of friends and work colleagues including serving military, veterans and civilians arrived at Europa Point in Gibraltar last Friday, having achieved their aim of raising awareness of homeless veterans and funds for veterans’ charity Launchpad.

Collectively, they have raised over £6,500 with a combination of online and offline donations. 

The challenge was organised by Launchpad’s business development manager and Royal Navy Reservist Gary Perriton. 

After crossing the finish line, he said: “The guys have been amazing and we are very grateful for everyone’s support. 

It’s certainly been a challenge, starting off in monsoon conditions in Cornwall to cycling in 36-degree heat, big climbs and long days in the saddle through mainland Spain.

"We managed a few niggling injuries throughout but we’ve done what we set out to achieve which is to raise awareness of Launchpad and the great work they do to support homeless veterans."

Brendon Kenny says  “I calculated we cycled 880 miles in total with a climb of 34,750ft which is over the height of Everest or the equivalent of climbing 17 Snaefell's in 13 days.

 "BITA Isle of Man supported Hero's on the Water, Rock to Recovery and Manx Legion at our lunch a couple of years ago, it was this which prompted me to take on this challenge to support and highlight veterans who, for whatever reason, need the help which Launchpad provides. 

"Thank you to everyone who has supported the fantastic team along the way including our sponsors who enabled this challenge to happen and to those who have made a donation to our JustGiving page.”